MAN, do we DiG anything that involves water! Just one of the many bonuses of living in and around Gwinnett is our AMAZING Fall weather. With September temperatures averaging highs and lows of 83/64 and October of 73/53, it makes the perfect time for extended water recreation.
During this time of space distancing (after all, you can still be “social” while keeping your distance), take advantage of the season and enjoy the great outdoors in all of its aquatic glory.
Pick a new H2O activity below and make it happen!
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding:
Stand-up paddle boarding (also known as SUP) is an outdoor water sports activity in which a rider stands up on a large board and uses a paddle to move through the water. This is one of the fastest growing board sports in the world and although we have witnessed wild SUP’ing in the rough Atlantic surf, we prefer a Lake Lanier or Chattahoochee vibe better. Stand-up paddle boarding is a fantastic workout, as well as a wonderfully relaxing sport.
SUP Yoga: Yep, it’s a thing! For a fun twist, why not try this as well? We’ll admit, we cannot imagine being so balanced to perfect this, but many enthusiasts do, so hey, go for it!
It is worth noting that sunset and sunrise (for you overachievers) tours, as well as group events and outings are offered by several companies in the area.
Team Radosta’s tours and classes begin right on the beach at Aqualand Marina on Lake Lanier for all paddle board skill levels from beginners to advanced paddlers. They will teach you everything you need to know!
(678) 558-2424 | 6800 Lights Ferry Road, Flowery Branch, GA 30542 | Teamradosta.org
Supertimeatlanta:
They offer year round stand up paddle board parties on Lake Lanier. “Anytime – Anyway – Anyone – All year long fun”…need we say more?
(770) 519-7786 | Vanns Tavern Park, Gainesville, GA 30506 | SUPerTimeAtlanta.com
Kayaking:
Kayaking is a watersport that involves paddling using a double-bladed oar and a kayak. The boats come in a variety of sizes and types, depending on their intended use, but most kayaks feature an enclosure that covers the legs and sits low in the water. They usually accommodate a single paddler, but tandem kayaks hold two people.
Quite often, we get wrapped up in the new hipster sport, overlooking some of the tried and true activities that aren’t as splashy. While we like to check out the latest and greatest, it’s always nice to get back to basics and this will always be one of our favs. Kayaking is one of those classic activities that puts you right in the heart of nature. We love paddling and we think you will too!
Energy Water Sports at Lanier Islands Park
(678) 300-0018 | 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy Buford, GA 30518 | energywatersports@gmail.com
Boating:
We like to think that our average reader is versed in the art of boating, so we will skip the nitty gritty details of this fun-ness. But did you know you can rent your own vessel at Harbor Landing and explore Lake Lanier’s 38,000 acres with boat rentals? Margaritaville at Lanier Islands offers a large variety of pontoons, tritoons, luxury houseboats and VIP excursion yachts. In addition, a variety of tubes, wakeboards and watersport equipment are also available for rent. Guests may also purchase fishing equipment, bait and other boating supplies at the Harbor Landing store.
Lanier Islands:
(470) 323-3465 | 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518 | lanierislands.com and go to the boating page
Food:
So, you love the water, but just want to chill? You can never go wrong with Fish Tales Lakeside Grille in Hideaway Bay Marina, Flowery Branch. We have seriously never had a bad meal (or cocktail) here. If this is your maiden voyage to dine, please make the signature “Fish Tales” part of your visit in some way, shape, or form…and then bring us some to thank us for the recommendation!
(770) 967-3775 | 6330 Mitchell St. Flowery Branch, GA 30542 | fishtaleslakelanier.com
Before the frigid temps take over and the leaves begin to fall, take in as much nature as you possibly can and hopefully DiG one of our revitalizing watersport suggestions. A friendly reminder, before digging into your new adventure, always check for updates with any business as hours and limitations may change with weather and “other” conditions.